Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers, the Wise Way.

Everything you need to know about setting up and running your business in the UAE, explained clearly, with no jargon.

How do I start the process of setting up a company with Corpwise?

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Send us a message on WhatsApp or fill in our contact form with your business activity and visa needs. We reply within 30 minutes during business hours with the right setup route, a document checklist, and a clear starting cost breakdown, before you commit to anything. No in-person meeting is needed to get started.

What information do I need to provide before you can give me a quote?

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To scope your case accurately, we need eight things: your business activity and licence type, preferred setup route (free zone or mainland), where you plan to trade, shareholder details (number, nationalities, UAE residency status), visa count, workspace needs, timeline, and whether your activity requires special approvals. Send those details and we'll confirm pricing and next steps.

How long does it take to set up a company in the UAE?

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Timelines depend on the route and your document readiness. Free zone licences typically take 1–10 working days. Mainland licences take 7–21 working days. If you also need a residence visa and Emirates ID, factor in additional time for the medical fitness test and biometrics appointment. We give you a realistic timeline for your specific case upfront.

How much does it cost to set up a UAE company?

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Starting prices begin at AED 5,750 for a free zone company, AED 12,500 for mainland, and AED 11,500 for offshore. Your final cost depends on the jurisdiction, licence type, visa count, workspace requirements, and any add-ons like PRO services or trademark registration. We confirm the exact scope and cost before you proceed, no hidden charges.

Do I need to be in the UAE to set up my company?

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Almost everything can be handled remotely via WhatsApp and email, onboarding, document collection, reviews, approvals, and payments. Two steps typically require your physical presence in the UAE: the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for your residence visa.

What types of UAE visas does Corpwise handle?

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We handle residence visas (employee, investor, and freelancer), Golden Visas (5 or 10-year residency without a sponsor), and family visas to sponsor your spouse, children, and parents. Each visa type has different eligibility criteria and document requirements, and we walk you through the right option based on your situation.

What is a UAE Golden Visa and am I eligible?

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The Golden Visa grants 5 or 10-year residency in the UAE without needing a sponsor. It's available to investors, entrepreneurs, specialists, and outstanding students who meet specific criteria. We assess your eligibility, prepare your application, and manage the process end to end. It's one of the most sought-after visa categories for long-term residents.

Can I sponsor my family once I have a residence visa?

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Yes. Once you hold a valid UAE residence visa and meet the income requirements set by immigration authorities, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and in some cases, parents. We handle the family visa applications as part of our visa services, same process: clear checklist, tracked progress, one point of contact.

How long does the visa process take?

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The visa timeline depends on the type and your document readiness. After your entry permit is issued, you'll need to complete a medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics in the UAE. The full process, from application to stamped visa, typically takes 2–4 weeks. We keep you updated at each stage via WhatsApp.

What happens if my visa is about to expire?

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Visa renewals need to be handled before expiry to avoid fines and legal complications. Corpwise tracks your renewal dates, prepares the required documents, and submits everything on time. If you need to cancel a visa (for example, when an employee exits), we manage that process too, including final settlement coordination.

What is the difference between a free zone and a mainland company?

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A free zone company operates within a designated zone with its own licensing authority, you get 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and a simplified setup. A mainland company is a standard UAE company that can trade freely across the entire UAE, work with government contracts, and open a physical shop. The right choice depends on your business activity, where your clients are, and how you plan to operate.

Can a free zone company do business with clients inside the UAE?

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Free zone companies can trade internationally and within the free zone, but selling directly to clients on the UAE mainland has restrictions. Some free zones now allow limited mainland trading through dual licensing or specific arrangements. We assess your business model and recommend the setup that gives you the access you need without unnecessary cost.

Which UAE free zones does Corpwise work with?

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We are official partners across 15+ free zones, including IFZA, Meydan Free Zone, Sharjah Media City (SHAMS), RAKEZ, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai CommerCity, and International Humanitarian City, spanning Dubai, Sharjah, RAK, and Ajman. Each zone has different strengths in terms of cost, visa allocation, and allowed activities. We help you compare and choose the right one.

Is a free zone company cheaper than a mainland company?

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Generally, yes. Free zone packages start from AED 5,750, while mainland formation starts from AED 12,500. However, the total cost depends on visa count, workspace needs, and your specific activity. A mainland licence may be more cost-effective long term if you need broad onshore trading access. We lay out both options side by side so you can make an informed decision.

Do I need a local partner (sponsor) for my company?

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For free zone and offshore companies, no, you retain 100% ownership. For mainland companies, most activities now allow full foreign ownership under the UAE's updated Commercial Companies Law. Some specific activities still require a UAE national as a local service agent or sponsor. We check your activity, tell you exactly what's needed, and set up a legally protective agreement if a sponsor is required.

How does Corpwise help with opening a business bank account?

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We prepare your complete document package, advise on which banks are most suitable for your business type, and guide you through the application process. Bank account approval is ultimately the bank's decision, but having a professionally prepared file significantly improves your chances and speeds things up. We support the process from submission to activation.

What documents do I need to open a corporate bank account in the UAE?

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Most banks require your trade licence, Memorandum of Association, shareholders' passport copies, proof of address, a business plan or company profile, and an initial deposit. Requirements vary by bank and business type. We provide you with the exact checklist tailored to your bank of choice before you start.

How long does it take to open a business bank account?

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Timelines vary significantly by bank, from a few days to several weeks. Newer companies and certain business activities may face additional due diligence, which can extend the process. We set realistic expectations upfront and follow up with the bank throughout to keep things moving.

Is it difficult for new companies to get a bank account in the UAE?

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It can be challenging, especially for newly formed companies without trading history. Banks apply strict due diligence and compliance checks. This is exactly why preparation matters, a well-structured application with all required documents, a clear business plan, and properly attested paperwork makes a real difference. Corpwise ensures your file is bank-ready before submission.

What is UBO registration and does my company need it?

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UBO stands for Ultimate Beneficial Owner. The UAE requires every company to register its ultimate beneficial owners, the individuals who ultimately own or control the business. This applies to both free zone and mainland companies. Corpwise handles the UBO filing as part of our compliance services, so you stay on the right side of regulations without the admin burden.

What are AML compliance requirements for UAE companies?

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Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance means your company must have documented procedures to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing. This includes customer due diligence, record-keeping, and appointing a compliance officer where required. We set up your AML framework and ensure your business meets the UAE's regulatory requirements.

Does my company need to register for VAT?

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If your taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 per year, VAT registration is mandatory. If they exceed AED 187,500, you can register voluntarily. We register you with the Federal Tax Authority, file your returns on schedule, and keep you compliant. Missing VAT deadlines leads to penalties, so we make sure submissions happen on time.

What is the UAE's corporate tax and does it apply to me?

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The UAE's 9% corporate tax applies to most businesses, mainland, free zone, or both. If you haven't registered or filed yet, you may already face penalties. Corpwise handles your corporate tax registration with the FTA, prepares your annual return, and files it. We also advise on any free zone tax incentives that may apply to your setup.

What happens if I miss my trade licence renewal?

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Operating with an expired licence can result in fines, difficulty processing visas, and potential legal issues. Corpwise tracks your renewal deadlines, prepares the documentation in advance, and submits on time, same price every year. We take this off your plate so an administrative task doesn't become an expensive problem.

What are PRO services and do I need them?

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PRO (Public Relations Officer) services cover all government-related paperwork, visa stamping, labour cards, licence amendments, document attestation, and in-person submissions at government offices. If you don't have someone to handle these tasks, our PRO team does it for you. We go to the offices, stand in the queues, and get it done so you don't have to.

Can Corpwise help me add shareholders or amend my company details after setup?

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Yes. Whether you need to add or remove a shareholder, change your business activity, update your company name, or amend your Memorandum of Association, we handle the full amendment process. Each change has specific requirements depending on your jurisdiction, and we provide the exact checklist and manage submissions through to completion.

Does Corpwise offer bookkeeping and accounting services?

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Yes. We provide monthly bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, and management reporting, so you know your numbers without doing the work yourself. Whether you're preparing for an audit, filing corporate tax, or simply want clean financials, our accounting team keeps your books organised and up to date.

Can I register a trademark through Corpwise?

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Absolutely. We file your trademark application through the UAE Ministry of Economy, walk you through the classification process, and handle every step from submission to registration. Protecting your brand name and logo early prevents other businesses from using them in the UAE, and the process is straightforward when handled properly.